As an enthusiast food blogger who loves experimenting with new recipes, I can confidently say that the air fryer has taken the top spot among the most popular cooking appliances of our time. It’s truly amazing how this handy device has sparked a culinary revolution, with new recipes going viral and a never-ending list of creative ways to utilize its capabilities.
Now, I must admit that I was once an air fryer novice myself, but that has changed completely. I recently took the plunge into the world of air frying, and let me tell you, I am absolutely hooked!
I’ve had the pleasure of preparing various dishes using the air fryer. From a delightful salmon dinner to a quick and flavorful frittata brunch, and even kid-friendly favorites like frozen pizza rolls and taquitos. However, one of my most recent triumphs was the creation of these unbelievably moist and juicy air fryer pork chops that are bursting with flavor!
You won’t believe how effortless it is to cook pork chops in the air fryer. They come out with a delightful crispness on the outside while maintaining a juicy and moist interior. The best part? They are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in no time at all. With the air fryer, your pork chops go from raw to beautifully cooked in a matter of minutes.
Trust me, once you experience the ease and incredible results of cooking with an air fryer, you’ll be just as addicted as I am. So, go ahead and give these air fryer pork chops a try—you won’t be disappointed!
How Long To Cook Pork Chops in the Air Fryer
Most pork chops, about 1 inch thick, will be cooked to a perfect 145 internal temperature in about 12 minutes, flipping about halfway through. Thicker chops will need a couple of extra minutes. Here is a great tip: You can cook pork chops to 140 degrees, and then let them sit to rest for about 5 minutes and they will finish at 145, while the juices redistribute, giving you the moistest pork chop possible.
What Temperature To Cook Pork Chops in the Air Fryer
Pork chops cook best at 400. I always preheat my air fryer for about 5 minutes before adding the chops to the basket but check your manual for what is recommended for your model.
Why Are My Pork Chops Tough in the Air Fryer
If you end up with tough, dry pork chops on your plate, the most common reason is overcooking. That 145-degree internal temperature is the sweet spot, so you can always start checking a few minutes before they are supposed to be done to make sure they didn’t cook quicker than planned. Be sure to have an instant-read meat thermometer ready.
The type of pork chop can also play into staying moist during cooking. Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier than boneless.
Boneless Pork Chops in the Air Fryer
While this recipe uses bone-in chops, you can certainly cook boneless chops in the air fryer too. Just remember they tend to have a better chance of overcooking and coming out dry and tough. So you might want to lower the temp and cooking time.
How To Cook Pork Chops in the Air Fryer
| Duration: 30 min | Cook time: 24 min |
| Prep time: 5 min | Servings: 4 |
Ingredients
- bone-in pork chops, 1 inch thick
- olive oil
- brown sugar
- smoked paprika
- ground mustard
- onion powder
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- dried parsley
Tools Needed
- air fryer
- tongs
- measuring cups/spoons
- small bowl
- basting brush
- large platter
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400. Dry pork chops on both sides with paper towels. In a small bowl combine all dry ingredients except parsley.
- Baste chops with oil on both sides. Rub well with the seasoning mix.
- Place chops in the air fryer basket so they aren’t touching. For mine, I could cook two at a time.
- Cook pork chops for 12 minutes, flipping at halfway or until reach an internal temp of 145. Remove and let rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Any dish you can make in the air fryer is sure to become a regular on your weekly menu plan rotation. When the dish has as much flavor as these moist, delicious pork chops, it might be on the table even more often!
Cooking Tips
- Bone-in chops will come out juicier and moister than boneless.
- Be sure to dry the meat well before basting and seasoning.
- Check the manual to see if pre-heating is needed.
- Be sure chops are not touching in the air fryer. You need air to circulate evenly around them for even cooking. Cook in batches if need be.
- Cook to an internal temp of 145, using an instant meat thermometer.
- Start checking internal temp at 10 minutes of cooking.
- Don’t let the color of the pork scare you—these are not spicy at all.
How To Store and Reheat Air Fryer Pork Chops
Store leftover pork chops in an air-tight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375, for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
